Jennica Robe
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern
In person (Tampa)/$200 per session/Autistic Teens and Adults and Families
jennica@autismspectrumcounseling.com
My Story
During my teenage years, seeking help from therapists and psychiatrists, I often felt invalidated and unseen. I know firsthand what it feels like to be misunderstood by mental health providers, feel more “broken,” and receive years of treatment that did not help. Learning and researching about living in a sensitive, hypermobile body led me to the revelation I was autistic! We are not “broken” but living in a world that does not support our unique, sensitive bodies and minds.
As a therapist my dedication to supporting individuals on their journeys through gender and sexual identity exploration, and beyond, is deeply personal. My specialization in working with the autistic community, including those navigating PDA, OCD, trauma, and depression is not just professional; it’s rooted in my own life. From a young age, I was acutely aware of the ways I differed from my peers, from being overwhelmed by sensory inputs to facing challenges in learning new skills and managing fears. These early experiences, marked by a struggle for understanding and acceptance, were the first steps on my path to discovering my own neurodivergence – a journey that has profoundly shaped my approach to therapy.
This personal connection to autism and the challenges of living in a world not designed for our unique needs drives my commitment to my clients. In my practice, I draw from a rich background in mindfulness, Buddhist philosophies, and shamanism, integrating these elements to support a holistic exploration of self and spirituality. My mission is to create a therapeutic space where neurodivergent folks can feel seen, understood, and supported. Whether it’s improving family communication or navigating crises my aim is to guide my clients toward embracing their true selves and living authentically in a world that is learning to appreciate diversity in the human experience.
My Education and Work Experienc
I have a dual Master of Arts in Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling from the University of South Florida. My work experiences include:
- Mental Health Counselor at Discovery Mood and Anxiety: As a neurodivergent-affirming therapist, I supported adults, teens, and families through individual and group therapy in a safe, non-judgmental, and autism-affirming space.
- Wellness Coach at University of South Florida (USF): Supported teens and college students with autism and ADHD in transitioning into adulthood and its challenges through coaching and counseling.
- Program Educator at Project Return: Facilitated support groups, meditation classes, and mindful movement exercise classes for more than 100 neurodivergent folks at a local community center for people with significant mental illness.
I also have the following training(s):
- Mindfulness and Meditation at Florida Community of Mindfulness (2016 – 2023):
- Mindfulness Practices for Emotional Healing and Transformation
- Mindfulness of Breath and Body
- Mindfulness Wisdom teachings